By Subhash K. Jha, IANS

News reports about Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan's impending marriage have now made way for further speculation about the link-up.

Are the reports planted in the press as publicity for their impending release "Umrao Jaan"? If so, by whom?

Director J.P. Dutta is more amused than incensed by the suggestion that his production house has orchestrated reports of the Ash-Abhishek romance.

Laughing dryly, Dutta told IANS: "What will I be held responsible for next? The Kargil war, just because I made a film about it? Honestly, such allegations don't hurt me. I've seen enough offensive attacks from all quarters in the industry to be affected by such loose talk.

"But I must admit that the suggestion that I orchestrated the news about my Umrao leads' link-up is a bit over-the-top. First of all, Abhishek is my own kid. I've introduced and nurtured his talents like a proud father. And, if today, he's a superstar I feel very proud."

Dutta sobered down.

"To suggest that I'd mastermind a romance between Abhishek and my heroine who's also like a part of my extended family is slightly incestuous and weird. Also, it doesn't help my film much. The romance in 'Umrao Jaan' comes to a tragic end."

Dutta warmed to the topic of Aishwarya and Abhishek.

"It's a strange coincidence. But Abhishek who started with me in 'Refugee', came to a career turnaround with Mani Ratnam's 'Yuva'. He's now working with me for the second time. And Ash, who started her career with Mani Ratnam (in 'Iruvar'), is now working with Abhishek for the second time in 'Guru'. I keep telling Ash, it's my protégée versus Mani's protégée in my 'Umrao'."

After a hearty laugh, Dutta said: "Seriously, 'Umrao' doesn't depend on any star presence. It's the story that works for the stars. The stars don't work for the story."